A win-win event

In business, the best kind of deals are the ones where everyone wins. This weekend, I had the pleasure of being involved in such a deal. My stores Sayville & Smithtown Running Company hosted a fun run from Dublin Deck in Patchogue with a few of the companies that make the products I sell in my stores.

The event was what we call a “prediction run.” I’ve written about them before, but basically instead of trying to be the fastest person in the race, your challenge is to most accurately guess how long the run will take you (without the aid of a watch). We had about 70 runners and their families come down, and they participated for free. Before the event, our vendors had tables set up where they were able to show off their latest products, and offer people a chance to wear and test new shoes. Afterward, runners had the option of joining us for a half-price, all-you-can-eat brunch, as well as some awards for the top predictors.

The runners had a great time. They were treated to a free run, a beautiful atmosphere on the water, a delicious half-priced meal and plenty of deals from the shoe companies. The stores and the bar made out great in terms of exposure, good will, and, of course, sales. The shoe companies got great advertising and a chance to get right in front of their customers. Everybody left feeling like they got a great value and a fun time.

The whole thing came about thanks to Chris from Spenco, an insole company who happens to also make excellent supportive sandals, who knew the folks over at Dublin Deck and suggested a collaboration. After some generosity on the parts of Dublin Deck and a few of our vendors, all of a sudden we had a great event on our hands.

At the end of the run, folks were coming up to thank us, and already asking if we’d be doing it again next year. Judging by the reactions, I’d say the answer is an overwhelming “yes.”